The NFL made major changes to the Pro Bowl format in an attempt to save the game that commissioner Roger Goddell said was on "life support."

But Jerry Rice, one of the captains that will assign players to teams in a "Pro Bowl Draft," told USA Today he doubts the modification can resurrect the league's all-star event. He thinks the players' attitude is the culprit.

"How can you get the players to recognize that it's an honor? You've got to play your best football in the Pro Bowl. So the spirit of this needs to be changed. I'm not sure that can be accomplished now."

Goodell admitted the players' effort in the 2013 Pro Bowl was an improvement over years prior, but the commissioner still wants a more competitive game.

"I watched the game and noticed the improved quality of the game," Goodell said. "We need to continually work to make our game better for the fans."

"If they want a vacation, go to the Bahamas," Rice said. "Back in the day, it was an honor to play in the Pro Bowl."

Under the new format, Rice and Deion Sanders will serve as Hall of Fame alumni captains and, along with the two Pro Bowlers with the most votes and and two NFL.com fantasy champions, will draft the two 43-man rosters four days before the game.

In an attempt to make the Pro Bowl safer, the NFL took away kickoffs. But Rice doesn't think players should be worried about injuries, either.

"If you play hard, everything will work out," Rice said. "You can get hurt walking down the stairs. I just don't understand."

Rice made 13 Pro Bowls during his 20-year NFL career. He is widely considered to be the greatest receiver in NFL history.